Under Pressure, Julian Alvarez Falls Ill
Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez will be out of action for his club this weekend.
Coach Diego Simeone confirmed to COPE. Alvarez has missed back-to-back trainings as the saga over his transfer continues to escalate.
Barcelona have been hot on the heels of signing the striker, but Atletico have maintained a stubborn resistance to a move to the Catalan club. Club CEO Gil Marin told journalists on the sidelines of Thursday’s UEFA Champions League draw that as long as he is the boss at the club, Alvarez would never be transferred to Barcelona.
The comment sparked immediate reaction from Barcelona, with Vice President Rafa Yuste slamming Atletico for “crossing a red line,” insisting Barcelona has always acted professionally.
Reports say the rigid stance of Atletico on the issue and the hostile attitude of some of the fans at the Metropolitano have severely affected Alvarez mentally.
Simeone told COPE that he will do what he can to help the player.
“The club has been clear. When Julián returns to training, I will do everything possible to make him feel as important as Julián has always been at the club. Now he’s not feeling well,” he said.
Atletico travel to Seville for a late Saturday evening fixture against Sevilla.
